The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is already a formidable machine, a pinnacle of American muscle car engineering. But for those who crave even more power, Shelby American offers something truly extraordinary: the GT500 Code Red. This limited-edition upgrade takes the already impressive Mustang Shelby Gt500 Hp figures to an entirely new level, transforming it into a 1300 horsepower monster.
The story of the Code Red begins with an experimental project in 2008. Shelby, always pushing the boundaries of performance, explored what was possible beyond the standard supercharged GT500. Working with enthusiastic customers seeking even more from their cars, they conceived the original Code Red – a twin-turbocharged marvel. This wasn’t just a power boost; it was a complete re-imagining of the GT500’s capabilities. However, due to its extreme nature and cost, it remained an experiment.
Shelby’s history is dotted with groundbreaking “EXP” experimental vehicles. Cars like the “Green Hornet,” “Little Red,” and indeed the 2008 twin-turbo Code Red, were testbeds for innovation. The ’67 GT500 Super Snake boasted a 427 race engine, while the Green Hornet tested fuel injection and independent rear suspension. Little Red featured twin superchargers and other advancements. These cars were about pushing limits, and the original Code Red followed this tradition.
In 2008, Shelby American daringly replaced the GT500’s supercharger with twin turbos for the experimental Code Red. Nelson Racing Engines reworked the 5.4-liter V8, incorporating a dual-feed fuel system that could introduce high-octane racing fuel when needed. Enhanced cooling and an AMS speed-sensitive boost controller were added to manage the immense power. The drivetrain was heavily modified, and numerous performance enhancements were implemented. Despite its groundbreaking engineering, the original Code Red’s extreme nature and associated cost prevented it from becoming a production model.
Fast forward to the present, and Shelby has transformed the experimental into reality. The 2020-2022 GT500 Code Red is now a limited production run, born from that initial vision. Shelby collaborated with key partners to create a package that is not only incredibly powerful but also robust and (relatively) reliable. The 5.2L engine is comprehensively upgraded with new high-performance components, headlined by a premium intercooled twin-turbo system. A new fuel system and engine management system are essential parts of this transformation. On 93 octane pump gas, the Code Red delivers over 1000 horsepower and 780 lb-ft of torque. But when fueled with E85 Ethanol, the Mustang Shelby GT500 HP figure explodes to a staggering 1300 horsepower, accompanied by 1000 lb-ft of torque.
The Code Red transformation is far more than just bolting on turbos. It’s a holistic upgrade. It includes a widebody package, necessitating new wheels, tires, and axles to handle the increased power and wider stance. Suspension tuning is refined, and the interior receives unique touches. Carbon fiber elements, including a distinctive hood, are added, and special badging denotes its Code Red status. Each car comes with membership to Team Shelby and official documentation in the Shelby Registry, adding to its exclusivity and collectibility.
Priced starting at $224,995, excluding the base GT500, the Code Red package is a significant investment for ultimate performance. Production is underway in Las Vegas, and current owners of 2020-2022 Shelby GT500s can contact Shelby American to discuss transforming their own cars into a Code Red edition. For those seeking the absolute pinnacle of Mustang Shelby GT500 HP and exclusivity, the Code Red is the answer.
